Chickpea and Spinach Stew
This comforting stew features chickpeas and spinach in a savory tomato-garlic sauce with warming spices like paprika and cumin. Often served in tapas bars in Spain, especially in Seville, it’s naturally vegan, nutritious, and easy to make.
Total Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1½ cups cooked)
4 cups fresh spinach (or 1½ cups frozen spinach, thawed)
½ cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
½ cup vegetable broth (or water)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar (optional but traditional)
Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
1. Saute the Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes and Chickpeas:
Stir in tomato sauce and broth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Add chickpeas and season with salt and pepper.
Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Add spinach:
Stir in fresh spinach by handfuls (or frozen if using).
Cook for another 3–5 minutes until wilted and well incorporated.
4. Finish and Serve:
Add vinegar for brightness and balance.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve warm with crusty bread or over rice or couscous.
Notes & Tips
Add a pinch of cinnamon or coriander for a Moroccan touch.
Add lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
To make it heartier, add poached eggs or serve with grilled sausages.
Frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I use canned tomatoes?
A: Yes. Crushed, diced, or tomato puree all work — just avoid overly watery ones.
Q: Can I use dried chickpeas?
A: Absolutely! Cook ¾ cup dried chickpeas until tender before using.
Q: How long does it keep?
A: Refrigerate for up to 4–5 days. It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Q: Is this vegan?
A: Yes, it’s 100% vegan and gluten-free as written.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 7g
Sodium: 340mg